Six Ways to Keep Pets Safe through a Very Active Hurricane Season

Hurricane season officially started June 1, and experts are predicting an extremely active Atlantic Hurricane Season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center anticipates that up to 20 named storms will hit the U.S. over the next five months, with more than half of them hurricanes!

That means pet parents in hurricane-prone areas should develop an emergency plan in advance to make sure the whole family—including its furriest members—stay safe.

Here are the ASPCA’s top six tips for hurricane season prep:

• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster.

• Make sure all pets wear collars and ID tags with up-to-date identification—the ASPCA also recommends microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of I.D.

• Obtain a rescue alert sticker, which will let rescuers know that pets are inside your home. You’ll get these when you order a free ASPCA Pet Safety Pack.

• Keep a pet emergency kit and supplies handy with items such as medical records, water, pet food and medications, and pet First Aid supplies.

• Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. Do not leave your pets behind.

• Choose a designated caregiver who can take care of your pet in the event you are unable to do so.